Hi all!
I apologize for the lateness of my first post. The audition process, while providing many moments for laughter at the expense of the dancing delusionals, has only provided real interest in a select few dancers after the first 4 hours. Here are the few I plan to keep my eye on in Vegas:
From the first audition show:
Devin Oshiro-great intensity and technique. I am curious about her. She didn't say much.
Twitch-I LOVED this guy in Vegas last year, and I will be shocked if he isn't in the top 20.
Philip Chbeeb-Ridiculous. It is like he is boneless. I hope he has taken enough classes this year to survive Vegas. I would love to see him with a partner.
William Wingfield-I absolutely love a dancer with something to say. I thought he was gorgeous.
Erica Gee-I was surprised to hear that she had failed to impress the last two (or was it three) times she was in Vegas. I liked her audition and can't wait to see more.
Leonides and Aliona vs. Ricky and Asuko-
I thought they all danced well, but I was more interested in Ricky and Asuko, who danced despite Asuko's illness. I thought they had more personality on stage.
Kherington Payne-The soccer jock with a commercial face. I thought she danced with a lot of joy, which was engaging. I am not sure about her technically. SYTYCD is somewhat about popularity, and the judges sure liked her. I guess we will see how she handles the pressure, and more difficult choreography in Vegas.
Robert Muraine-Loved his froggy. I am not sure how well he would deal with ballroom, and I predict that he is the Philip Chbeeb of Season 5.
In the second 2 hours, I had less interest in a few of the dancers they put through.
I thought Chelsea Hightower was good, considering it looked like she borrowed a partner just for the audition, but as far as these go:
Ryan Race-creepo strip club DJ. I couldn't get past the lip posts.
Kortney and Michelle-best friends who got married and divorced at the same time (what the f?) Didn't get either one of them as dancers.
Paige Jones-Pink bathroom, Mary Murphy teeth girl. Total bad dance competition number.
I think these four will be gone the first hour they are in Vegas.
As far as the few that I was wowed by:
Kelly Baker -High School Musical girl. Incredible extensions and lines. I loved her passion and will be shocked if she isn't part of the top 20.
Matt Doraime (sp?)-I totally enjoyed this dancer-who cares about his shorts?? I sure didn't notice them. I am sure all my dance teacher friends are cringing about now!
Arielle-great partnering and interesting lifts, but I can't wait to see her all by herself.
Gaev-ice breaker guy-I am intrigued.
I can't wait for tonight, but I am even more anxious for Vegas. The true test is to see how they handle the stress of a live show like this, and how versatile they are.
Tune in tonight...
The blog will get more detailed friends-I promise. May is dreadfully busy, but June is a few days away!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Thursday, May 22, 2008
David Cook-Our American Idol Season 7
In an exciting, surprising turn of events, David Cook has captured the American Idol Crown! In a very unusual finale, nobody seemed quite as shocked as David Cook was.
Was it backlash from the use of teleprompters Tuesday, supposedly needed to make sure David Archuleta didn't have any issues with forgetting his lyrics (a problem he had multiple times throughout the season)? Was it the lack of maturity in David A's performances? After reading about 30 different articles, I probably shouldn't have been so shocked. Even bookies in Las Vegas had this one predicted correctly. I suppose that it was appropriate that I predicted the finale incorrectly, as I had such a poor track record all season.
A few highlights and lowlights of the evening:
Highlights:
1. Brooke White and Graham Nash-the perfect duet for Brooke and she looked gorgeous too!
2. David Cook with ZZ Top-a complete blast!
3. David Archuleta with One Republic-that is the kind of music that could put David A on the map.
4. Jason's Hallelujah-with double the passion of the first performance.
5. My Aussie and Carly-why didn't she perform like that during the competition??
6. Syesha and Seal-Fantastic chemistry!
7. Carrie Underwood-now that is an Idol!!
8. David Cook's guitar hero commercial.
9. Ryan's attempt at break dancing-I almost wet my pants.
10. Simon's apology to David Cook-rare, but appropriate.
11. David Cook's mom and brother at the announcement, I had tears in my eyes.
Lowlights:
1. Amanda Overmyer with Donna Summer (what were they thinking? Talk about a miserable performer.)
2. Mike Meyers shameless promotion of his new movie.
3. All of the top 12 numbers.
4. The horrendous camera work during the top 12 singing and dancing. I was almost motion sick.
5. Did we need to hear "I am your brother" again, with a marching band, in a different key than the singer?
6. Paula crying during George Michael's song, come on.
7. David A's Creeper Daddy
8. David A's guitar hero commercial.
9. Jimmy Kimmel-did we need to do that again?
10. Jordan Sparks dress-what were you thinking Dorothy?
11. Gladys Knight video-I will give it to you that the new pips (Jack Black my personal fav)were a riot, but this was time that would have been better spent on an actual live musical act.
Overall, one of the more enjoyable finale's. At the announcement I had butterflies, and the energy in the room was electric. I wish them both all good things and look forward to hearing them on the radio. See you all tomorrow after SYTYCD. For the rest of you-I will be back next season! Happy summer....
Was it backlash from the use of teleprompters Tuesday, supposedly needed to make sure David Archuleta didn't have any issues with forgetting his lyrics (a problem he had multiple times throughout the season)? Was it the lack of maturity in David A's performances? After reading about 30 different articles, I probably shouldn't have been so shocked. Even bookies in Las Vegas had this one predicted correctly. I suppose that it was appropriate that I predicted the finale incorrectly, as I had such a poor track record all season.
A few highlights and lowlights of the evening:
Highlights:
1. Brooke White and Graham Nash-the perfect duet for Brooke and she looked gorgeous too!
2. David Cook with ZZ Top-a complete blast!
3. David Archuleta with One Republic-that is the kind of music that could put David A on the map.
4. Jason's Hallelujah-with double the passion of the first performance.
5. My Aussie and Carly-why didn't she perform like that during the competition??
6. Syesha and Seal-Fantastic chemistry!
7. Carrie Underwood-now that is an Idol!!
8. David Cook's guitar hero commercial.
9. Ryan's attempt at break dancing-I almost wet my pants.
10. Simon's apology to David Cook-rare, but appropriate.
11. David Cook's mom and brother at the announcement, I had tears in my eyes.
Lowlights:
1. Amanda Overmyer with Donna Summer (what were they thinking? Talk about a miserable performer.)
2. Mike Meyers shameless promotion of his new movie.
3. All of the top 12 numbers.
4. The horrendous camera work during the top 12 singing and dancing. I was almost motion sick.
5. Did we need to hear "I am your brother" again, with a marching band, in a different key than the singer?
6. Paula crying during George Michael's song, come on.
7. David A's Creeper Daddy
8. David A's guitar hero commercial.
9. Jimmy Kimmel-did we need to do that again?
10. Jordan Sparks dress-what were you thinking Dorothy?
11. Gladys Knight video-I will give it to you that the new pips (Jack Black my personal fav)were a riot, but this was time that would have been better spent on an actual live musical act.
Overall, one of the more enjoyable finale's. At the announcement I had butterflies, and the energy in the room was electric. I wish them both all good things and look forward to hearing them on the radio. See you all tomorrow after SYTYCD. For the rest of you-I will be back next season! Happy summer....
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
The Battle of the Davids
It’s the final challenge, the battle of the David’s, youth and control vs. experience and creativity. At this moment, before either of them has sung a note, I have no idea how this will play out. This is the first season that I haven’t known in my heart who was going to win even if it was someone I didn’t prefer (Rueben, Fantasia), and it is also the first time I have felt that it didn’t really matter. Both of these guys have a great future, and I wouldn’t mind seeing either of them walk away with the Idol crown.
We open to the Rocky theme and Michael Buffer introducing the David’s in the first of many over the top boxing analogies this evening. Good Lord, how did they convince David Cook to put on those gloves? We are now in the Nokia theatre, with 7000 in attendance. Paula looks gorgeous, and even Simon put on a sport coat for the occasion. My excitement level has been successfully built up, despite the extreme corny nature of this finale. Let’s get ready to rumble….
Clive Davis picked the song for round one and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber provided some helpful mentoring. I like that they have brought him back, as he was the only one who seemed to have anything constructive to say to the contestants. The boys’ compliment each other in a Coke sponsored moment (what the f?) despite Simon’s assertions that they need to hate each other to win, and David Cook starts the night.
Round 1
David Cook "I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For" U2
Clive picked a hard song to duplicate, as Bono’s charisma is one of a kind, but David Cook comes out with a great vocal and connection to the audience. He doesn’t necessarily do anything very unique with the song, but he exceeds my expectations and I thoroughly enjoy it. The energy is fantastic and he controls his nerves and channels them into his performance. Randy thought it was a great way to start and he loved the scoop at the end. Paula said, "we have found David Cook, Amen, Amen…" and a bunch of other ridiculous stuff. Simon thought it was phenomenal.
David Archuleta "Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me" Elton John
Clive is equally, if not more demanding of David A, but what a perfect song for this kid’s voice. He starts singing on the steps and keeps his eyes open, and I am blown away at the flawless performance. His vocal is really one of the best he has achieved and I am rendered speechless by it. Randy says his usual "check it out baby, molten hot, blah blah blah…" Paula had chills and said "the sun will never go down on you, it was stunning". Who writes this stuff? Simon keeps it real and honest and says that last week David was just ok, but this was his best performance of the competition. Round one goes to David A.
Round 2
David Cook "Dream Big" Emily Shackleton (writer’s competition)
This song choice is not what you would expect at the finale (I am picturing Kelly in her ball gown with tears rolling down her face), and I am instantly a little worried. Don’t get me wrong, he sings really well, and this actually matches his personality and charm more than a ballad would. It just isn’t very Idol of him. And, true to the "written for Idol" song, the lyrics are kind of dumb, and get a little hard to follow in the chorus. Before he started to sing, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber had expressed concern over David’s voice, and I can see in this performance where that concern stems from. David pushed and strained his voice on this piece, to the point that he could damage his vocal chords. Randy says the song is just ok for him but he sang it great. Paula said he took a song that we didn’t know and made us fall in love with it. Speak for yourself, Paula. Simon said it didn’t feel like a winning moment, and then made the 500th boxing reference of the evening, saying that it was a bit of a lightweight piece.
David Archuleta "In This Moment" Ryan Gilmore (writer’s competition)
Now this is an Idol ballad, and I have to hand it to David, he throws everything he has into it. It too, is trite and predictable, but I am seeing the confetti raining down on him in a white tux with tears streaming down his face, standing (or sitting) with his right palm out and facing up. In fact, unless he completely falls apart on the last song, he has won the evening. Of course he looks wound tight, like he could come unhinged at any moment if someone touches him or something so it isn’t quite won yet-but close. Randy says "you could sing the phone book (can we be done with Randy after this season?) Paula said it was magic and another heartfelt performance. Simon said that he loved the egotistical lyrics and gave round 2 to David A.
Round 3
David Cook "The World I Know" Collective Soul
On this last song of the evening the contestants get to choose, and typically, in past seasons, they have gone back to a number that was a fan favorite throughout the competition. David breaks this tradition by going with song that he has never performed before. I am a HUGE Collective Soul fan, and I love the emotion of this performance. I recognize that this may not be the song to win it for David C., but it won me over completely. It was my favorite of the evening. It was the first time I felt I got a glimpse of the person behind the music, and I would buy a CD with that kind of rawness. I was really moved and glad that I was able to watch him achieve that song. Randy thought that David could record this kind of song right now. Paula said he was standing in his truth (oh for God’s sake) and gave him a standing ovation. Simon first said that David was the most sincere and nicest contestant that Idol has ever had on the show, but thought he should have done Hello or Billie Jean from earlier in the competition. He thought this was the total wrong song choice. I have to respect David’s guts, and win or lose I am glad I got to hear this song.
David Archuleta "Imagine" John Lennon
David goes back to the song that probably put him on the map in this competition. Hearing it the second time wasn’t as surprising for me, but he leaves his heart and soul out there and I am inspired. The performances added up together, along with this being the last performance of the evening, really stack up in David A’s favor from a purely vocal standpoint. I prefer the maturity that David Cook brings to his songs, but the quality of David A’s instrument is unbelievable. I can’t conceive of a finale without this kid winning after tonight. Randy says he is the best singer of Season 7. Paula is moved (for a change) beyond words. Simon said David A. came out to win, and the evening was a knockout. He also acknowledged that it was a great finale.
David A has a great future ahead of him, if he doesn’t flake out when he reaches the age where his father can no longer control him. I am picturing Brittany, Lindsey, and other child stars who have been molded and controlled in the way that David A has. He may turn 21 and shave his head and start clubbing, who can say? I know I gave Idol a lot of crap this season, but after tonight I am excited to watch it wrap up in all of its star studded glory. Plus I get to see my Aussie one more time. (Be quiet Gary, you will get to look at Kristy Lee and Syesha).
For those not going on with me to SYTYCD on Thursday night, I will chat at you next season! For the rest, you won’t even get a night off and we will be dancing the night away! Tune in tonight….
We open to the Rocky theme and Michael Buffer introducing the David’s in the first of many over the top boxing analogies this evening. Good Lord, how did they convince David Cook to put on those gloves? We are now in the Nokia theatre, with 7000 in attendance. Paula looks gorgeous, and even Simon put on a sport coat for the occasion. My excitement level has been successfully built up, despite the extreme corny nature of this finale. Let’s get ready to rumble….
Clive Davis picked the song for round one and Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber provided some helpful mentoring. I like that they have brought him back, as he was the only one who seemed to have anything constructive to say to the contestants. The boys’ compliment each other in a Coke sponsored moment (what the f?) despite Simon’s assertions that they need to hate each other to win, and David Cook starts the night.
Round 1
David Cook "I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For" U2
Clive picked a hard song to duplicate, as Bono’s charisma is one of a kind, but David Cook comes out with a great vocal and connection to the audience. He doesn’t necessarily do anything very unique with the song, but he exceeds my expectations and I thoroughly enjoy it. The energy is fantastic and he controls his nerves and channels them into his performance. Randy thought it was a great way to start and he loved the scoop at the end. Paula said, "we have found David Cook, Amen, Amen…" and a bunch of other ridiculous stuff. Simon thought it was phenomenal.
David Archuleta "Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me" Elton John
Clive is equally, if not more demanding of David A, but what a perfect song for this kid’s voice. He starts singing on the steps and keeps his eyes open, and I am blown away at the flawless performance. His vocal is really one of the best he has achieved and I am rendered speechless by it. Randy says his usual "check it out baby, molten hot, blah blah blah…" Paula had chills and said "the sun will never go down on you, it was stunning". Who writes this stuff? Simon keeps it real and honest and says that last week David was just ok, but this was his best performance of the competition. Round one goes to David A.
Round 2
David Cook "Dream Big" Emily Shackleton (writer’s competition)
This song choice is not what you would expect at the finale (I am picturing Kelly in her ball gown with tears rolling down her face), and I am instantly a little worried. Don’t get me wrong, he sings really well, and this actually matches his personality and charm more than a ballad would. It just isn’t very Idol of him. And, true to the "written for Idol" song, the lyrics are kind of dumb, and get a little hard to follow in the chorus. Before he started to sing, Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber had expressed concern over David’s voice, and I can see in this performance where that concern stems from. David pushed and strained his voice on this piece, to the point that he could damage his vocal chords. Randy says the song is just ok for him but he sang it great. Paula said he took a song that we didn’t know and made us fall in love with it. Speak for yourself, Paula. Simon said it didn’t feel like a winning moment, and then made the 500th boxing reference of the evening, saying that it was a bit of a lightweight piece.
David Archuleta "In This Moment" Ryan Gilmore (writer’s competition)
Now this is an Idol ballad, and I have to hand it to David, he throws everything he has into it. It too, is trite and predictable, but I am seeing the confetti raining down on him in a white tux with tears streaming down his face, standing (or sitting) with his right palm out and facing up. In fact, unless he completely falls apart on the last song, he has won the evening. Of course he looks wound tight, like he could come unhinged at any moment if someone touches him or something so it isn’t quite won yet-but close. Randy says "you could sing the phone book (can we be done with Randy after this season?) Paula said it was magic and another heartfelt performance. Simon said that he loved the egotistical lyrics and gave round 2 to David A.
Round 3
David Cook "The World I Know" Collective Soul
On this last song of the evening the contestants get to choose, and typically, in past seasons, they have gone back to a number that was a fan favorite throughout the competition. David breaks this tradition by going with song that he has never performed before. I am a HUGE Collective Soul fan, and I love the emotion of this performance. I recognize that this may not be the song to win it for David C., but it won me over completely. It was my favorite of the evening. It was the first time I felt I got a glimpse of the person behind the music, and I would buy a CD with that kind of rawness. I was really moved and glad that I was able to watch him achieve that song. Randy thought that David could record this kind of song right now. Paula said he was standing in his truth (oh for God’s sake) and gave him a standing ovation. Simon first said that David was the most sincere and nicest contestant that Idol has ever had on the show, but thought he should have done Hello or Billie Jean from earlier in the competition. He thought this was the total wrong song choice. I have to respect David’s guts, and win or lose I am glad I got to hear this song.
David Archuleta "Imagine" John Lennon
David goes back to the song that probably put him on the map in this competition. Hearing it the second time wasn’t as surprising for me, but he leaves his heart and soul out there and I am inspired. The performances added up together, along with this being the last performance of the evening, really stack up in David A’s favor from a purely vocal standpoint. I prefer the maturity that David Cook brings to his songs, but the quality of David A’s instrument is unbelievable. I can’t conceive of a finale without this kid winning after tonight. Randy says he is the best singer of Season 7. Paula is moved (for a change) beyond words. Simon said David A. came out to win, and the evening was a knockout. He also acknowledged that it was a great finale.
David A has a great future ahead of him, if he doesn’t flake out when he reaches the age where his father can no longer control him. I am picturing Brittany, Lindsey, and other child stars who have been molded and controlled in the way that David A has. He may turn 21 and shave his head and start clubbing, who can say? I know I gave Idol a lot of crap this season, but after tonight I am excited to watch it wrap up in all of its star studded glory. Plus I get to see my Aussie one more time. (Be quiet Gary, you will get to look at Kristy Lee and Syesha).
For those not going on with me to SYTYCD on Thursday night, I will chat at you next season! For the rest, you won’t even get a night off and we will be dancing the night away! Tune in tonight….
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Gene's Take on the Top 3
Not sure about the rest of you, but I am now at the point where I don't give flying f who wins this stupid charade. At this point, the judges need to as objective as possible and not try to influence the results, as they so blatantly did last night. They basically sent Syesha packing so it can be a showdown between Randy's David and Simon's David. Regardless of the final results, I will predict the career paths of the three remaining contestants:
Syesha: You will go home tonight, but don't worry, you will become the superstar of this group. I predict a Grammy, a Tony, and an Oscar before Archuleta has to shave.
Cook: You will have the immediate success a la Daughtry. Watch out for that sophomore slump though, I'm not sure you have the staying power or versatility to go more than one album deep.
Archuleta: Does "From Justin to Kelly" mean anything to you? It better. Now about last night..... David A: 'And So It Goes' - a real gem, you nailed it like no one else could. The Chris Brown song - Daddy A needs to be bitch slapped for choosing that one for you, you looked like a fool. "Longer", no comment, Fogelberg was one of my faves also.
David C: "First Time.." - great, Switchfoot - horrendous, off-key and screechy, Aerosmith - OK, good enough for the finals.
Syesha: Alicia Keyes - you were absolutely stunning in that gown. The song wasn't bad either. "Fever" - Lord, Almighty that dress. Why was I sitting on the ground underneath the TV, did I really think I would see up your dress? Oh well, it was worth a shot. "Hit Me Up" Great idea, I think I will. I'm with Annie, I was ready to get you out of that dress for this one. Why the pants?
How will they possibly make tonight's show last an hour? How about a medley of songs the producers pick but the judges hate? Might as well keep it consistent.
Syesha: You will go home tonight, but don't worry, you will become the superstar of this group. I predict a Grammy, a Tony, and an Oscar before Archuleta has to shave.
Cook: You will have the immediate success a la Daughtry. Watch out for that sophomore slump though, I'm not sure you have the staying power or versatility to go more than one album deep.
Archuleta: Does "From Justin to Kelly" mean anything to you? It better. Now about last night..... David A: 'And So It Goes' - a real gem, you nailed it like no one else could. The Chris Brown song - Daddy A needs to be bitch slapped for choosing that one for you, you looked like a fool. "Longer", no comment, Fogelberg was one of my faves also.
David C: "First Time.." - great, Switchfoot - horrendous, off-key and screechy, Aerosmith - OK, good enough for the finals.
Syesha: Alicia Keyes - you were absolutely stunning in that gown. The song wasn't bad either. "Fever" - Lord, Almighty that dress. Why was I sitting on the ground underneath the TV, did I really think I would see up your dress? Oh well, it was worth a shot. "Hit Me Up" Great idea, I think I will. I'm with Annie, I was ready to get you out of that dress for this one. Why the pants?
How will they possibly make tonight's show last an hour? How about a medley of songs the producers pick but the judges hate? Might as well keep it consistent.
Nigel Lythgoe on Daddy A.
Nigel Lythgoe on Jeff Archuleta: It's about taking "some pressure away here"
May 13, 2008, 03:56 PM by Adam B. Vary
Categories: American Idol, Television, TV Biz
American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe (top right) spoke with EW.com today about the recent reports that Jeff Archuleta (bottom left, with David and mother Lupe), the father of 17-year-old Idol contestant David Archuleta, has been barred from participating in his son's preparations for the show. Here's what Lythgoe had to say:
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: There have been reports that Jeff Archuleta was banished from backstage, but then David's vocal coach gave a radio interview in which he said that wasn't the case. What light can you shed on this?NIGEL LYTHGOE: "Banished" is a terrible word, isn't it? It sounds like we're in some far-off kingdom. He has been asked not to participate in the choice of music with David or be in the room when David is working out his routines that he wants to sing. He's fine to be in the studio -- nothing wrong with that. We just want David to be able to be free like everybody else to get on and do what they want to do.
Does that have anything to do with the lyric change during David A.'s performance of "Stand By Me?"There was a lyric change that happened that was a total misunderstanding. Just another, um, step along the way of us saying, "Okay, this is what we want to happen from now on."
The vocal coach had said Jeff being asked not to participate backstage was more of an issue of fairness, essentially that David Cook and Syesha Mercado don't have anyone helping them out choosing songs or making arrangements.No, no, no. It has nothing to do with fairness. We just want everyone to have an equal opportunity, and if that's fairness, fine. But this is more of just the fact of let's take some pressure away here, you know? It's like anybody appearing in front of their mom and dad. Let's just open up the pressure cooker, release the pressure, and you just get on and do what you gotta do.
The rap on the father is that he's a bit of a stage dad.And what is a stage dad, or a stage mom? It's someone who's protective. That's all.
May 13, 2008, 03:56 PM by Adam B. Vary
Categories: American Idol, Television, TV Biz
American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe (top right) spoke with EW.com today about the recent reports that Jeff Archuleta (bottom left, with David and mother Lupe), the father of 17-year-old Idol contestant David Archuleta, has been barred from participating in his son's preparations for the show. Here's what Lythgoe had to say:
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: There have been reports that Jeff Archuleta was banished from backstage, but then David's vocal coach gave a radio interview in which he said that wasn't the case. What light can you shed on this?NIGEL LYTHGOE: "Banished" is a terrible word, isn't it? It sounds like we're in some far-off kingdom. He has been asked not to participate in the choice of music with David or be in the room when David is working out his routines that he wants to sing. He's fine to be in the studio -- nothing wrong with that. We just want David to be able to be free like everybody else to get on and do what they want to do.
Does that have anything to do with the lyric change during David A.'s performance of "Stand By Me?"There was a lyric change that happened that was a total misunderstanding. Just another, um, step along the way of us saying, "Okay, this is what we want to happen from now on."
The vocal coach had said Jeff being asked not to participate backstage was more of an issue of fairness, essentially that David Cook and Syesha Mercado don't have anyone helping them out choosing songs or making arrangements.No, no, no. It has nothing to do with fairness. We just want everyone to have an equal opportunity, and if that's fairness, fine. But this is more of just the fact of let's take some pressure away here, you know? It's like anybody appearing in front of their mom and dad. Let's just open up the pressure cooker, release the pressure, and you just get on and do what you gotta do.
The rap on the father is that he's a bit of a stage dad.And what is a stage dad, or a stage mom? It's someone who's protective. That's all.
Idol Chat-Final Three
Well my fellow idol watchers, it is almost time for the big crowning, and at this point I have absolutely no idea who is going to win it. I do have a pretty good idea of who isn’t, however. Ryan said we have a high schooler, an actress and a bartender in the semi-finals. Who is going to win and who will go home to their day jobs? This is American Idol.
David Archuleta "And So it Goes" Billy Joel
David learns from a freakish man who apparently is the Mayor of David A’s hometown, that Paula is the judge who picked his first song. With all the crazy bad press poor David has received about his Dad being banned from rehearsals, and Idol getting stuck with extra royalties from his Dad’s insistence on incorporating a second song in Stand By Me, I am sickly fascinated as to what will happen. Will the puppet be able to perform when the puppeteer is kept away? This song was actually a beautiful choice for David, and I loved that he started a Capella to showcase his crystal clear voice. I am totally bugged by his eyes tonight though. He needs to either open them all the way or shut them. The affect I am getting is "the sun is blinding me", or " hey mom, I need glasses". In other words his pained expression took away from the overall beauty of the vocal for me. I also want to grab that right hand and move it a different way. Or stick something in it. Randy said that David was in the zone and in it to win it. Randy isn’t even trying to come up with new phrases anymore. Paula said it was a pure and stellar performance. Simon said it was very good, but with no surprises, so for him it wasn’t outstanding.
Syesha Mercado "If I ain’t Got You" Alicia Keys
Syesha needs to hone those acting skills a little, because I wasn’t buying the spontaneity of "look- I just got a text message from Randy" for one minute. While I certainly could see where Randy was going with his song choice, I don’t think he did Syesha any favors. She couldn’t match the depth and raw emotion of Alicia Keys, and during the verse her voice sounded strained and out of tune at times. She soared through the chorus and she looked absolutely beautiful, but I thought the top of her dress looked like it needed to be taken in. Since I still play the original, I would not start listening to this version when I could have the real thing. Randy said she was peaking at the right time of the competition. He could see her heart. Paula said she was proud of Syesha and that she applauds how beautiful she looks. Hey, did she get away without really critiquing her vocal? Simon said she sang it well and was gorgeous.
David Cook "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" Roberta Flack
David also is no actor, and I cringe as he gets his text message from Simon. Simon wanted to challenge David and give him a chance to be original with one of the greatest songs ever written. From the first note, I have Goosebumps. I tend to forget that David has such great technical ability because he leans so heavy on rock. I loved what he did with this song, and think it is probably one of his best moments on stage. We all love to kid Simon, but he was right on this time. Randy wished he would have rocked. Paula said he had perfect tone and that it was now her second favorite version. I guess we are to assume that Flack’s is her favorite? Simon said it was his best performance to date and that round one goes to Cook/Cowell.
David Archuleta "With You" Chris Brown
David manages to get through his interview without looking too confused. Oops, he isn’t sure if it is time to go sing or not. I spoke too soon. I think that his vocals on this are pretty good, but rhythmically he looks at odds with the piece and he is way too big a slice of white bread to say "my boo". I can see that he is battling his image as the ballad boy, and so I am glad he tried it. He showed potential on this number and when he was dancing around (however badly) he didn’t seem as squinty. Randy didn’t believe the "my boo" line either. Paula thought he needed to shorten the phrasing. I don’t know about you all, but Paula has been amazing me with her clarity this evening. Simon applauded him for not choosing a ballad, but felt that it was like a Chihuahua attempting to be a tiger.
Syesha Mercado "Fever" Peggy Lee
My first thought when I see the chair is "uh oh". I may need to close my eyes again if this gets too embarrassing. Her vocal is pretty good, the performance is sexy, but for me this is back to talent show, dance competition stuff. Don’t get me wrong, she would probably get a gold medal, but this is not relevant to what I would go out and buy and listen to in my car. Randy thought she sang it well, but was confused by the song choice. Paula thought she looked lovely, but that she was surprised that she picked this song and didn’t think it showed who Syesha is as an artist. Simon took it even further by saying it was a lame cabaret act, and that she was going to really regret this decision.
David Cook "Dare You to Move" Switchfoot
I really like this song, and I am curious as to what David is going to do with it. It starts off really rough for me, he hits a few bum notes and the performance is a little flat. Then he finally hits his stride and it ends so abruptly I am looking to see if somebody pulled the plug. Randy thought it was a great song choice, just not his best performance. Paula wanted more, (and again is completely on her game with her comments-what is going on?) Simon thought it was pretty much what he expected and that the middle round was just okay for all three singers.
David Archuleta "Longer" Dan Fogelberg
The producers pick this song for David, and I have to say that vocally it matches him perfectly. I loved Dan Fogelberg and cried at his passing, so this song moves me more because it was one of the first songs I fell in love with by him. I can’t even give a critique. Well, he is doing that weird eye thing and licking his lips again, but aside from that he really sings this song beautifully. Randy said it was a very interesting song choice. Well he didn’t choose it Randy. How about saying something relevant this evening? Paula said it was a lovely performance. Simon thought he sang very well, but that the song was gooey and should be sung by a 90-year-old. Again, he didn’t pick the song!
Syesha Mercado "Hit Me Up" Gia Farrel
I can see where the producers were going with this very upbeat song that was from the Happy Feet soundtrack, but Syesha looks about as comfortable with this style of music as David A. did singing "my boo". She is a really good performer, and she had fun with it. It was cute and fun, but not necessarily memorable. I am glad she got out of the dress, and thought she looked younger in her black pants and white top. Randy said it was just okay for him. Paula thought she did the song well, but she didn’t think it would be enough to get into the final. Paula has not had a nonsense comment all evening. Simon said it was better than the middle song, but that it wasn’t as good as last weeks Sam Cooke song. Unfortunately for Syesha she needed a defining moment on this show, and she didn’t have it.
David Cook "I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing" Aerosmith
David starts off a little weak but finds his stride quickly. I think he sings it fabulously, with the exception of the second to last note, which was painful. I also didn’t care for some of the timing in the chorus, but overall I am just picking at him, because it was a believable performance and a memorable one. Randy loved the song but thought it was predictable. Paula gave a shout out to Diane Warren, who wrote the song and was in the audience. She simply said "see you in the finals". Simon said that David Cook won the night. I would agree, but not for this song. His rendition of Flack’s song will be the one I remember from the entire evening.
Best tonight: David Cook.
Going home: Syesha Mercado-unless the Daddy Archuleta press has a negative impact, she just didn’t do enough to break through against the Davids.
Tune in tonight….
I wanted to add that as this season wraps, please give So You Think You Can Dance a try. I will be blogging this show as I have for the last three seasons. If you are curious and not sure you want to make the summer commitment-but have plenty of spare time this weekend then check this out this blurb from BSYTYCD.com.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
TV Dance News
Cancel your weekend plans and stock up on snacks. SYTYCD season 3 marathon on MTV begins at 8:30 Saturday morning and goes till Sunday night. Plan your bathroom runs to coincide with the Tila Tequila commercials. We'll have an open comment thread here at BSYTYCD.
The actual season starts on May 22nd with a two hour season premiere. Give it a try-you won't be disappointed.
David Archuleta "And So it Goes" Billy Joel
David learns from a freakish man who apparently is the Mayor of David A’s hometown, that Paula is the judge who picked his first song. With all the crazy bad press poor David has received about his Dad being banned from rehearsals, and Idol getting stuck with extra royalties from his Dad’s insistence on incorporating a second song in Stand By Me, I am sickly fascinated as to what will happen. Will the puppet be able to perform when the puppeteer is kept away? This song was actually a beautiful choice for David, and I loved that he started a Capella to showcase his crystal clear voice. I am totally bugged by his eyes tonight though. He needs to either open them all the way or shut them. The affect I am getting is "the sun is blinding me", or " hey mom, I need glasses". In other words his pained expression took away from the overall beauty of the vocal for me. I also want to grab that right hand and move it a different way. Or stick something in it. Randy said that David was in the zone and in it to win it. Randy isn’t even trying to come up with new phrases anymore. Paula said it was a pure and stellar performance. Simon said it was very good, but with no surprises, so for him it wasn’t outstanding.
Syesha Mercado "If I ain’t Got You" Alicia Keys
Syesha needs to hone those acting skills a little, because I wasn’t buying the spontaneity of "look- I just got a text message from Randy" for one minute. While I certainly could see where Randy was going with his song choice, I don’t think he did Syesha any favors. She couldn’t match the depth and raw emotion of Alicia Keys, and during the verse her voice sounded strained and out of tune at times. She soared through the chorus and she looked absolutely beautiful, but I thought the top of her dress looked like it needed to be taken in. Since I still play the original, I would not start listening to this version when I could have the real thing. Randy said she was peaking at the right time of the competition. He could see her heart. Paula said she was proud of Syesha and that she applauds how beautiful she looks. Hey, did she get away without really critiquing her vocal? Simon said she sang it well and was gorgeous.
David Cook "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" Roberta Flack
David also is no actor, and I cringe as he gets his text message from Simon. Simon wanted to challenge David and give him a chance to be original with one of the greatest songs ever written. From the first note, I have Goosebumps. I tend to forget that David has such great technical ability because he leans so heavy on rock. I loved what he did with this song, and think it is probably one of his best moments on stage. We all love to kid Simon, but he was right on this time. Randy wished he would have rocked. Paula said he had perfect tone and that it was now her second favorite version. I guess we are to assume that Flack’s is her favorite? Simon said it was his best performance to date and that round one goes to Cook/Cowell.
David Archuleta "With You" Chris Brown
David manages to get through his interview without looking too confused. Oops, he isn’t sure if it is time to go sing or not. I spoke too soon. I think that his vocals on this are pretty good, but rhythmically he looks at odds with the piece and he is way too big a slice of white bread to say "my boo". I can see that he is battling his image as the ballad boy, and so I am glad he tried it. He showed potential on this number and when he was dancing around (however badly) he didn’t seem as squinty. Randy didn’t believe the "my boo" line either. Paula thought he needed to shorten the phrasing. I don’t know about you all, but Paula has been amazing me with her clarity this evening. Simon applauded him for not choosing a ballad, but felt that it was like a Chihuahua attempting to be a tiger.
Syesha Mercado "Fever" Peggy Lee
My first thought when I see the chair is "uh oh". I may need to close my eyes again if this gets too embarrassing. Her vocal is pretty good, the performance is sexy, but for me this is back to talent show, dance competition stuff. Don’t get me wrong, she would probably get a gold medal, but this is not relevant to what I would go out and buy and listen to in my car. Randy thought she sang it well, but was confused by the song choice. Paula thought she looked lovely, but that she was surprised that she picked this song and didn’t think it showed who Syesha is as an artist. Simon took it even further by saying it was a lame cabaret act, and that she was going to really regret this decision.
David Cook "Dare You to Move" Switchfoot
I really like this song, and I am curious as to what David is going to do with it. It starts off really rough for me, he hits a few bum notes and the performance is a little flat. Then he finally hits his stride and it ends so abruptly I am looking to see if somebody pulled the plug. Randy thought it was a great song choice, just not his best performance. Paula wanted more, (and again is completely on her game with her comments-what is going on?) Simon thought it was pretty much what he expected and that the middle round was just okay for all three singers.
David Archuleta "Longer" Dan Fogelberg
The producers pick this song for David, and I have to say that vocally it matches him perfectly. I loved Dan Fogelberg and cried at his passing, so this song moves me more because it was one of the first songs I fell in love with by him. I can’t even give a critique. Well, he is doing that weird eye thing and licking his lips again, but aside from that he really sings this song beautifully. Randy said it was a very interesting song choice. Well he didn’t choose it Randy. How about saying something relevant this evening? Paula said it was a lovely performance. Simon thought he sang very well, but that the song was gooey and should be sung by a 90-year-old. Again, he didn’t pick the song!
Syesha Mercado "Hit Me Up" Gia Farrel
I can see where the producers were going with this very upbeat song that was from the Happy Feet soundtrack, but Syesha looks about as comfortable with this style of music as David A. did singing "my boo". She is a really good performer, and she had fun with it. It was cute and fun, but not necessarily memorable. I am glad she got out of the dress, and thought she looked younger in her black pants and white top. Randy said it was just okay for him. Paula thought she did the song well, but she didn’t think it would be enough to get into the final. Paula has not had a nonsense comment all evening. Simon said it was better than the middle song, but that it wasn’t as good as last weeks Sam Cooke song. Unfortunately for Syesha she needed a defining moment on this show, and she didn’t have it.
David Cook "I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing" Aerosmith
David starts off a little weak but finds his stride quickly. I think he sings it fabulously, with the exception of the second to last note, which was painful. I also didn’t care for some of the timing in the chorus, but overall I am just picking at him, because it was a believable performance and a memorable one. Randy loved the song but thought it was predictable. Paula gave a shout out to Diane Warren, who wrote the song and was in the audience. She simply said "see you in the finals". Simon said that David Cook won the night. I would agree, but not for this song. His rendition of Flack’s song will be the one I remember from the entire evening.
Best tonight: David Cook.
Going home: Syesha Mercado-unless the Daddy Archuleta press has a negative impact, she just didn’t do enough to break through against the Davids.
Tune in tonight….
I wanted to add that as this season wraps, please give So You Think You Can Dance a try. I will be blogging this show as I have for the last three seasons. If you are curious and not sure you want to make the summer commitment-but have plenty of spare time this weekend then check this out this blurb from BSYTYCD.com.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
TV Dance News
Cancel your weekend plans and stock up on snacks. SYTYCD season 3 marathon on MTV begins at 8:30 Saturday morning and goes till Sunday night. Plan your bathroom runs to coincide with the Tila Tequila commercials. We'll have an open comment thread here at BSYTYCD.
The actual season starts on May 22nd with a two hour season premiere. Give it a try-you won't be disappointed.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
The Idol Hopefuls Take on the National Anthems in their Hometowns
This week it is Idol tradition for the final three to go home for some family and whatever hoopla their hometown's decide to put on for them. The attached link has a great article giving you an idea of how each visit went down:
http://www.theledger.com/article/20080513/NEWS/805130336/1326
This link has some interesting predictions about who will win and why:
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/ent/stories/DN-idolfinalists_0513gl.ART.State.Edition1.4628aae.html
For the scoop on Jeff Archuleta's ban from the Idol rehearsal sessions after last weeks "Stand By Me" issue-(apparently the last straw for the Idol producers), check out this article:
http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1587273/20080512/id_0.jhtml
Can't wait for tonight my friends!!
http://www.theledger.com/article/20080513/NEWS/805130336/1326
This link has some interesting predictions about who will win and why:
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/ent/stories/DN-idolfinalists_0513gl.ART.State.Edition1.4628aae.html
For the scoop on Jeff Archuleta's ban from the Idol rehearsal sessions after last weeks "Stand By Me" issue-(apparently the last straw for the Idol producers), check out this article:
http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1587273/20080512/id_0.jhtml
Can't wait for tonight my friends!!
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Goodbye Blue Eyes
A few notes about last nights show. Must we continue these hour long kick off shows? Nobody really wants 50 minutes of filler, we just want to know who is going home. Please don't try our patience.
The marching around during the high school talent show group number was awful. The only part of that routine that built any kind of excitement was when David Archuleta waves his arm for some presumably big reveal. The walls parted, and as anticipation was building and the lights dimmed, the guitar guy comes out. Was anyone else like, "oh, its you, the band guy"?
The commercial made absolutely no sense, and the question/answer section was awkward for poor David Cook. The only thing I found extremely intriguing is the fact that 1 million votes separate the top 3 contestants. That means that none of them can get away with a bad week because there is no clear winner yet. Interesting too will be where the section of votes that Jason Castro has been securing will fall next week. I can't see the Castro fans necessarily gravitating toward David A.
It was really good that Jason left, especially since he was so clearly hoping to. I am not sure there is enough pot back stage at Idol to get him through three songs. Tune in next week....
The marching around during the high school talent show group number was awful. The only part of that routine that built any kind of excitement was when David Archuleta waves his arm for some presumably big reveal. The walls parted, and as anticipation was building and the lights dimmed, the guitar guy comes out. Was anyone else like, "oh, its you, the band guy"?
The commercial made absolutely no sense, and the question/answer section was awkward for poor David Cook. The only thing I found extremely intriguing is the fact that 1 million votes separate the top 3 contestants. That means that none of them can get away with a bad week because there is no clear winner yet. Interesting too will be where the section of votes that Jason Castro has been securing will fall next week. I can't see the Castro fans necessarily gravitating toward David A.
It was really good that Jason left, especially since he was so clearly hoping to. I am not sure there is enough pot back stage at Idol to get him through three songs. Tune in next week....
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Gene's Take
Well Idol Annie, we'll agree on some and disagree on others.... I too, expected big things this week - only to be let down. The Final Four (two Davids, a Dread and a Dreamgirl!) seemed to be confused by this whole concept - choose two songs from the 500 most influential rock songs of all time.... check out the list at : http://www.rockhall.com/exhibithighlights/500-songs-by-name-ac/ ...... here we go:
David C: "Hungry Like The Wolf" Are you kidding me? Did you bother to look at the list of 500? What, couldn't find anything by Culture Club or Bananarama? What about The Thompson Twins? And that leering, squatting, about to pounce on your prey posing simply made you look like that idiot Constantine. Not only are you arrogant and smug, now I can call you stupid. "Baba O"...OK, but watch out, you're f'ing with the Who classic.....better go thank Jason for your spot for next week.
Syesha: "Proud Mary" I'll disagree with Annie here, thought it was great, especially the dancing thing - at least you brought some personality to the show tonight. "A Change is Gonna Come" The dress was absolutely FABULOUS!!! Cleavage galore!!! Bewbies all over!!!! GLAMTASTIC!!!! Never could pick out the melody though - but it really doesn't matter! See you next week - keep bringing the heat with the wardrobe!!!
Jason: Oh my, oh my, oh my.....you have finally been exposed. Sure, I thought "Hallelujah" was amazing and "Over the Rainbow" bought you several weeks, but later dude. Although the dreads looked skankier than ever (!), just because you got 'em don't make you no Bob Marley, mon. The only thing you had in common with Bob Marley on that one was that you must have been stoned when you decided on that version. "Tambourine Man" Not only did you forget the lyrics, but you forgot what is probably the most recognizable phrase in the CHORUS of the song "...in the JINGLE JANGLE MORNING...." Idiot. Annie, here is where we will disagree again - Jason will NOT have a career in this business, he just doesn't care enough. He will continue to ride his talent into the pants of all the cute little stoned co-eds at Texas A&M - and he will be quite satisfied with that.
David A: Nailed them both. Perfect. Awesome. Better version than Elvis. Daddy won't beat you - again! Watch out for David C though - he knows that you are the enemy.
On another note....was my TiVo screwed up, or was the audio mix absolutely terrible last night? Seemed like the only mic that was on was on the lead vocal - could barely hear the band. The short replays at the end sounded fine though.... just curious.
Gene
David C: "Hungry Like The Wolf" Are you kidding me? Did you bother to look at the list of 500? What, couldn't find anything by Culture Club or Bananarama? What about The Thompson Twins? And that leering, squatting, about to pounce on your prey posing simply made you look like that idiot Constantine. Not only are you arrogant and smug, now I can call you stupid. "Baba O"...OK, but watch out, you're f'ing with the Who classic.....better go thank Jason for your spot for next week.
Syesha: "Proud Mary" I'll disagree with Annie here, thought it was great, especially the dancing thing - at least you brought some personality to the show tonight. "A Change is Gonna Come" The dress was absolutely FABULOUS!!! Cleavage galore!!! Bewbies all over!!!! GLAMTASTIC!!!! Never could pick out the melody though - but it really doesn't matter! See you next week - keep bringing the heat with the wardrobe!!!
Jason: Oh my, oh my, oh my.....you have finally been exposed. Sure, I thought "Hallelujah" was amazing and "Over the Rainbow" bought you several weeks, but later dude. Although the dreads looked skankier than ever (!), just because you got 'em don't make you no Bob Marley, mon. The only thing you had in common with Bob Marley on that one was that you must have been stoned when you decided on that version. "Tambourine Man" Not only did you forget the lyrics, but you forgot what is probably the most recognizable phrase in the CHORUS of the song "...in the JINGLE JANGLE MORNING...." Idiot. Annie, here is where we will disagree again - Jason will NOT have a career in this business, he just doesn't care enough. He will continue to ride his talent into the pants of all the cute little stoned co-eds at Texas A&M - and he will be quite satisfied with that.
David A: Nailed them both. Perfect. Awesome. Better version than Elvis. Daddy won't beat you - again! Watch out for David C though - he knows that you are the enemy.
On another note....was my TiVo screwed up, or was the audio mix absolutely terrible last night? Seemed like the only mic that was on was on the lead vocal - could barely hear the band. The short replays at the end sounded fine though.... just curious.
Gene
Top Four Take on the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame
American Idol-Top Four
Ryan opens the show telling us that no one is safe and nothing is guaranteed. We find out that the theme is the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame and that it is time to pick the right song and stand out from the crowd. It looks like Simon is in the same shirt as last week. Paula looks lovely, but blank. I have really high expectations with a song list this large. There is no excuse to not be able to find two songs that showcase what these contestants are about.
David Cook opens the show with "Hungry like the Wolf" by Duran Duran.
I am instantly thinking about that crazy woman who shot her kids while listening to this song over and over in her car. This is an unfortunate association and I can’t get into his performance at all. Plus, he promised in his little interview beforehand that this was going to be switched up a bit. It is exactly like the original. It is a good vocal, but nothing unique, and it is not even that compelling to watch.
Randy thought it was an okay choice, and a solid performance but he was looking for the contestants to really go for it with their vocals. Paula said Hungry like the Wolf left her with a big appetite, and that this is why she tolerates being the only girl in the boys club. What is she talking about? Simon said it was good, but he didn’t make it his own.
Syesha Mercado is next with Tina Turner’s "Proud Mary".
She looks gorgeous and has the sexy hip thing going on, but I have heard this song 2000 times at dance competitions and talent shows and I start with mild boredom that escalates into embarrassment when the music goes up tempo and she starts her heinous dance moves. I almost have to leave the room. It isn’t that she has a vocal that is off-key, but this song is just too overplayed for me to even care. Randy thought it was the third week in a row that she showed up in the zone. Paula said she looked like a star and that she has a magnetic personality. Simon says he is going to put a slight damper on the event by keeping it real. It was a shrieky version of the original and a bad impersonation of Tina Turner. Thank God. I thought maybe it was just me.
Jason Castro decides to attempt Bob Marley’s "I Shot the Sheriff"
This is would seem to be a wise choice, as Bob Marley is exactly who I think of when I hear Jason. He delivers a pretty decent performance, but I don’t get the guitar, since he barely plays it. His approach is, "cool, I get to sing Bob Marley", and from the standpoint of showing who you are as an artist, we get the picture. Jason is probably going to have a successful career, but not as the American Idol. Randy says "dude, this was not special, it was karaoke, and not good". Paula liked that he performed, but then said she really wasn’t crazy about how he performed, but that he was genuine. Paula, why don’t you go ahead and rate his second song now? Simon gives it to him straight. It was atrocious and likened it to a first round audition massacre. I guess Bob Marley is right up there with Mariah and Celine and can’t be touched. Who knew?
David Archuleta chooses Ben E. King’s "Stand by me" because he has always sung it in his room and he wanted to sing it in front of people. You can really tell David’s age when he interviews, and he has trouble really saying anything that lets you in. When he starts singing all is forgiven. The vocal is surprising and extremely impressive, and by far the best tonight. David’s connection is fantastic, and I love what he does with the arrangement. Randy says he is in it to win it and he brought the mad hot vocals. Paula says David is way beyond his years and that he really communicated with his eyes. This is actually the only coherent thing she has said so far. Simon said David had the luck of being placed after a really bad performance, but thought he was the best of the night. He did think he struggled at the end. Replay that Simon, because you are wrong on that one.
David Cook’s second song is a Who classic, "Baba O'riley".
David starts on the stool and admits he could have done way more with his first performance. Is that a touch of nerves? I guess even the extremely talented can get caught up in the pressure at this point in the competition.
Whatever was on David’s mind the first time around, he is able to get focused on this song and he delivers a really great performance. He is able to showcase his range with this piece, and I love it. Randy says this is more like the David Cook he has come to know and for him to shake it off and have fun. Paula says she wants more David Cook. Simon says "welcome back David Cook". For God’s sake, are we just going to repeat his name back to him twelve times?
Syesha Mercado finishes up with Sam Cooke’s "A Change is Gonna Come"
Gene should be pleased with this absolutely beautiful dress that gives him plenty of cleavage. There are a couple of times during the vocal that Syesha is a little drowned out by the band. That being said, for the first time since she has been on this show I completely felt her emotional connection to the song, and when she let go in the chorus, she was breathtaking. I was thrilled to get to watch such a transformation from a great technical singer to a star quality singer. Randy didn’t like the arrangement and thought that she didn’t need to do so much with the melody. Paula gives her a standing ovation and says "Welcome to your dream Syesha" to which Syesha dissolves into tears. Simon says that he has to be fair and agree with (wait for it) Paula. Good for Syesha, I hope to see you next week!
Jason Castro decides for his final performance (and I do believe it was his final as a competitor) to go back to what he does best, folk rock, and he tackles Bob Dylan’s "Mr. Tambourine Man". This is actually the perfect fit for him, as it really matches his personality and style. Tragically, he drops several lines of lyrics and na –na –na’s his way through, pretty much sealing his fate. At this point I would like to share a quick word with the tweens. Please don’t worry about Jason. I don’t really think he even cares that much. He will put out a CD that appeals to his people and he will do just fine. The kid is so relaxed that even when Randy asks him "how do you think you did" he just smiles and says "well, I forgot some lines, so that’s not too good". Randy said simply, you’re not in the game tonight. Paula says the song didn’t blow me away, but you blow me away. Simon says "pack your suitcase" which hopefully won’t backfire on him. I love Jason, but the others have outgrown him, and let’s face it, he has ridden this as far as he can. He isn’t the type to do that corny "written for Idol" ballad, and he isn’t in the same league as the other three technically. It is a vocal competition.
David Archuleta finishes out the night with Elvis’ "Love me Tender". David’s vocal is beautiful, and he manages to make the song completely his own, but I miss that raw, unpolished passion that only the King could deliver. Sorry David, as good as it was, I would take the original over that any day. Randy says it is another great performance. Paula felt his emotional connection and this was her favorite performance of his. Simon said he crushed the competition tonight. I would agree that by technical standards, David’s voice stood out head and shoulders above the other three. He is an incredible Idol find, and with maturity and training could probably go on to the kind of success that Kelly and Carrie has achieved. I wouldn’t write off the talent and courage of the other David in this competition though.
Top songs of the night were David A.’s Stand by Me and David C.’s Baba O'riley and Syesha’s A Change is Gonna Come.
Worst songs of the night were both of Jason’s songs and Seysha’s Proud Mary.
All the great performances aside, I was a little disappointed in tonight’s show. I was looking for blow me away performances. While I really enjoyed several, I was waiting for the Kelly Clarkson "I can’t Live", Bo Bice "Vehicle", Carrie Underwood’s "Broken Road" or Katherine McPhee’s "Over the Rainbow" moment for one of these guys. I think Syesha got the closest to that moment in her second performance, but not necessarily with the actual song choice. Hopefully next week when the judges pick on of the top 3’s songs, we will get that crazy performance that may even cause me to pick up a phone.
As far as all of you Jason haters, you can send me 200 more emails railing on him, but you will never get me to forget his Hallelujah or his Over the Rainbow. I have only downloaded two I-tunes this season and those were it. Tune in tonight….
Ryan opens the show telling us that no one is safe and nothing is guaranteed. We find out that the theme is the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame and that it is time to pick the right song and stand out from the crowd. It looks like Simon is in the same shirt as last week. Paula looks lovely, but blank. I have really high expectations with a song list this large. There is no excuse to not be able to find two songs that showcase what these contestants are about.
David Cook opens the show with "Hungry like the Wolf" by Duran Duran.
I am instantly thinking about that crazy woman who shot her kids while listening to this song over and over in her car. This is an unfortunate association and I can’t get into his performance at all. Plus, he promised in his little interview beforehand that this was going to be switched up a bit. It is exactly like the original. It is a good vocal, but nothing unique, and it is not even that compelling to watch.
Randy thought it was an okay choice, and a solid performance but he was looking for the contestants to really go for it with their vocals. Paula said Hungry like the Wolf left her with a big appetite, and that this is why she tolerates being the only girl in the boys club. What is she talking about? Simon said it was good, but he didn’t make it his own.
Syesha Mercado is next with Tina Turner’s "Proud Mary".
She looks gorgeous and has the sexy hip thing going on, but I have heard this song 2000 times at dance competitions and talent shows and I start with mild boredom that escalates into embarrassment when the music goes up tempo and she starts her heinous dance moves. I almost have to leave the room. It isn’t that she has a vocal that is off-key, but this song is just too overplayed for me to even care. Randy thought it was the third week in a row that she showed up in the zone. Paula said she looked like a star and that she has a magnetic personality. Simon says he is going to put a slight damper on the event by keeping it real. It was a shrieky version of the original and a bad impersonation of Tina Turner. Thank God. I thought maybe it was just me.
Jason Castro decides to attempt Bob Marley’s "I Shot the Sheriff"
This is would seem to be a wise choice, as Bob Marley is exactly who I think of when I hear Jason. He delivers a pretty decent performance, but I don’t get the guitar, since he barely plays it. His approach is, "cool, I get to sing Bob Marley", and from the standpoint of showing who you are as an artist, we get the picture. Jason is probably going to have a successful career, but not as the American Idol. Randy says "dude, this was not special, it was karaoke, and not good". Paula liked that he performed, but then said she really wasn’t crazy about how he performed, but that he was genuine. Paula, why don’t you go ahead and rate his second song now? Simon gives it to him straight. It was atrocious and likened it to a first round audition massacre. I guess Bob Marley is right up there with Mariah and Celine and can’t be touched. Who knew?
David Archuleta chooses Ben E. King’s "Stand by me" because he has always sung it in his room and he wanted to sing it in front of people. You can really tell David’s age when he interviews, and he has trouble really saying anything that lets you in. When he starts singing all is forgiven. The vocal is surprising and extremely impressive, and by far the best tonight. David’s connection is fantastic, and I love what he does with the arrangement. Randy says he is in it to win it and he brought the mad hot vocals. Paula says David is way beyond his years and that he really communicated with his eyes. This is actually the only coherent thing she has said so far. Simon said David had the luck of being placed after a really bad performance, but thought he was the best of the night. He did think he struggled at the end. Replay that Simon, because you are wrong on that one.
David Cook’s second song is a Who classic, "Baba O'riley".
David starts on the stool and admits he could have done way more with his first performance. Is that a touch of nerves? I guess even the extremely talented can get caught up in the pressure at this point in the competition.
Whatever was on David’s mind the first time around, he is able to get focused on this song and he delivers a really great performance. He is able to showcase his range with this piece, and I love it. Randy says this is more like the David Cook he has come to know and for him to shake it off and have fun. Paula says she wants more David Cook. Simon says "welcome back David Cook". For God’s sake, are we just going to repeat his name back to him twelve times?
Syesha Mercado finishes up with Sam Cooke’s "A Change is Gonna Come"
Gene should be pleased with this absolutely beautiful dress that gives him plenty of cleavage. There are a couple of times during the vocal that Syesha is a little drowned out by the band. That being said, for the first time since she has been on this show I completely felt her emotional connection to the song, and when she let go in the chorus, she was breathtaking. I was thrilled to get to watch such a transformation from a great technical singer to a star quality singer. Randy didn’t like the arrangement and thought that she didn’t need to do so much with the melody. Paula gives her a standing ovation and says "Welcome to your dream Syesha" to which Syesha dissolves into tears. Simon says that he has to be fair and agree with (wait for it) Paula. Good for Syesha, I hope to see you next week!
Jason Castro decides for his final performance (and I do believe it was his final as a competitor) to go back to what he does best, folk rock, and he tackles Bob Dylan’s "Mr. Tambourine Man". This is actually the perfect fit for him, as it really matches his personality and style. Tragically, he drops several lines of lyrics and na –na –na’s his way through, pretty much sealing his fate. At this point I would like to share a quick word with the tweens. Please don’t worry about Jason. I don’t really think he even cares that much. He will put out a CD that appeals to his people and he will do just fine. The kid is so relaxed that even when Randy asks him "how do you think you did" he just smiles and says "well, I forgot some lines, so that’s not too good". Randy said simply, you’re not in the game tonight. Paula says the song didn’t blow me away, but you blow me away. Simon says "pack your suitcase" which hopefully won’t backfire on him. I love Jason, but the others have outgrown him, and let’s face it, he has ridden this as far as he can. He isn’t the type to do that corny "written for Idol" ballad, and he isn’t in the same league as the other three technically. It is a vocal competition.
David Archuleta finishes out the night with Elvis’ "Love me Tender". David’s vocal is beautiful, and he manages to make the song completely his own, but I miss that raw, unpolished passion that only the King could deliver. Sorry David, as good as it was, I would take the original over that any day. Randy says it is another great performance. Paula felt his emotional connection and this was her favorite performance of his. Simon said he crushed the competition tonight. I would agree that by technical standards, David’s voice stood out head and shoulders above the other three. He is an incredible Idol find, and with maturity and training could probably go on to the kind of success that Kelly and Carrie has achieved. I wouldn’t write off the talent and courage of the other David in this competition though.
Top songs of the night were David A.’s Stand by Me and David C.’s Baba O'riley and Syesha’s A Change is Gonna Come.
Worst songs of the night were both of Jason’s songs and Seysha’s Proud Mary.
All the great performances aside, I was a little disappointed in tonight’s show. I was looking for blow me away performances. While I really enjoyed several, I was waiting for the Kelly Clarkson "I can’t Live", Bo Bice "Vehicle", Carrie Underwood’s "Broken Road" or Katherine McPhee’s "Over the Rainbow" moment for one of these guys. I think Syesha got the closest to that moment in her second performance, but not necessarily with the actual song choice. Hopefully next week when the judges pick on of the top 3’s songs, we will get that crazy performance that may even cause me to pick up a phone.
As far as all of you Jason haters, you can send me 200 more emails railing on him, but you will never get me to forget his Hallelujah or his Over the Rainbow. I have only downloaded two I-tunes this season and those were it. Tune in tonight….
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Idol Rumors
In case anyone else was as curious about Ryan's reference to the rumors on the Internet about Paula being untrue, I did a little research. This article is a good start:
http://www.reuters.com/article/wtMostRead/idUSN0156325920080501?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0
Apparently the change in format did happen mid show, and that is what confused Paula. Idol is vehemently denying that they pre-write all of their comments from the dress rehearsals, but do admit that the judges catch dress rehearsal from time to time. They also came out and denied that Paula was having cocktails with Ryan at lunch time before the show aired on Tuesday, and that they would have to replace her as a judge.
From what I can see, Paula's "confusion" created enough Idol buzz to give this show (which is down 10% with the viewing public) that much needed boost in the ratings.
As far as Brooke going home, my goodness. How dramatic and painful to watch. I am glad that is over.
http://www.reuters.com/article/wtMostRead/idUSN0156325920080501?pageNumber=1&virtualBrandChannel=0
Apparently the change in format did happen mid show, and that is what confused Paula. Idol is vehemently denying that they pre-write all of their comments from the dress rehearsals, but do admit that the judges catch dress rehearsal from time to time. They also came out and denied that Paula was having cocktails with Ryan at lunch time before the show aired on Tuesday, and that they would have to replace her as a judge.
From what I can see, Paula's "confusion" created enough Idol buzz to give this show (which is down 10% with the viewing public) that much needed boost in the ratings.
As far as Brooke going home, my goodness. How dramatic and painful to watch. I am glad that is over.
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